[image from brandimpact.wordpress.com]
Eat less Chikin?We’re all familiar with the controversy regarding Chick-fil-a, but many people seem to have this misconception that the boycott stems from what VP Donald Cathy had to say about same-sex marriage. While that did spark some controversy among same-sex marriage supporters, the real controvery runs much deeper than that. Truthfully, I’m surprised that the media hasn’t reported about this yet.
According to the site Equality Matters, Chick-fil-a donated nearly $2 million to anti-gay organizations in America, and has donated over $3 million to companies such as the Family Research Council and Exodus International. (source) You may ask, “So what’s the big deal? They’re allowed to donate to whatever company they choose!” True, but these companies support the practices of de-gaying clinics and camps – also known as “pray the gay away” – and lobbied Congress to back in 2010 to not condemn Uganda for the Anti-Homosexuality act, better known as the “Kill the Gays” bill. For supporters of same-sex marriage and those in the LGBTQ+ community, this may leave a bad taste in your mouth.
[Image from washingtonpost.com]
It’s impossible to research every company and every organization that you buy a product from, however, that shouldn’t stop you from making a minimal effort. While many may appreciate the small business model of Chick-fil-a, this revelation that the organization donates money to therapies that try to erase those who do not fit into heteronormative society may harm them in the long run. While Chick-fil-a cannot discriminate against those who disagree (“the Chick-fil-A culture and 66-year-old service tradition in our restaurants is to treat every person with honor, dignity and respect – regardless of their belief, race, creed, sexual orientation or gender”, source), and is an equal opportunity employer, this may turn some of the younger generation.So whether you’re choosing to do today’s “kiss-in” or you think the whole boycotting thing is stupid, please make good decisions. Take into account civil disobedience and the consequences, and take into account that the first amendment only goes so far.
